No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert

Name: No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487298H54M40S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 1 8 oz. package cream cheese (softened); 1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 21 oz. can cherry pie filling

Published: June 20, 2025

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dessert without any baking!
Versatile Serving Options: Perfectly portioned for individual servings or served in a larger dish for sharing, making it ideal for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet cherry topping is sure to delight your family and friends.
No Special Equipment Required: You don’t need fancy kitchen gadgets; just basic tools will do!
Make Ahead Delight: Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge, saving you time on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful dessert, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Electric mixer
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups
Spatula
Dessert dishes or glasses

Importance of Each Tool

Electric mixer: Makes blending the cream cheese smooth and easy, reducing lumps for a perfect texture.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient portions, vital for achieving the right balance of flavors.
Spatula: Helpful for transferring the cheesecake mixture into dishes without mess.

Ingredients

This no-bake cheesecake, topped with cherry pie filling is simple enough for a weeknight meal, but fancy enough for holidays and special occasions.

For the Crust

3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons butter (melted)

For the Cheesecake Filling

1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened
1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla

For Topping

1 21 oz. can cherry pie filling

Servings: 4-6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 142 kcal, Serving Size: 1 g, Carbs: 18 g, Protein: 2 g, Fat: 7 g

How to Make No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a small bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Divide the crumb mixture evenly among your dessert dishes or glasses.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the sweetened condensed milk while mixing well. Next, beat in lemon juice and vanilla until fully combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

Spoon the cheesecake mixture over each graham cracker crust layer in your dishes. Finally, top each serving with cherry pie filling. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. Enjoy your delightful No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert!

How to Serve No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert

Serving your No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert is a delightful experience. This simple yet elegant dessert can be presented in various ways to impress your guests or treat your family.

Individual Cups

Use small dessert cups for a personal touch. Layer the cheesecake and cherry filling for a beautiful presentation.

Parfait Style

Create a parfait by layering graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake mixture, and cherry pie filling in a tall glass. This adds height and visual appeal.

Garnish with Whipped Cream

Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream. This adds creaminess and enhances the flavors of the cheesecake.

Fresh Cherries as Topping

For an extra burst of flavor, add fresh cherries on top of the cherry pie filling. This gives a fresh twist to your dessert.

Chocolate Shavings

Sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for added sweetness and texture. It contrasts nicely with the tartness of the cherries.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

Pair this dessert with a cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverage complements the cool cheesecake beautifully.

How to Perfect No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert

To achieve the best version of your No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert, consider these handy tips.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature for smoother blending.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain a light and airy texture in your cheesecake.
Chill Thoroughly: Let the cheesecake set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving; this enhances its firmness.
Experiment with Flavors: Add different extracts like almond or coconut for unique variations on this classic recipe.
Use Alternative Toppings: Try other fruit toppings like blueberry or strawberry pie filling for a delightful change.

Best Side Dishes for No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert

Pairing side dishes with your No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors.

Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the cheesecake while adding freshness.
Ice Cream
Serve vanilla or chocolate ice cream alongside for an indulgent treat that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheesecake.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
These sweet bites add elegance and provide an extra layer of flavor when enjoyed with cheesecake.
Nutty Granola Bars
Crunchy granola bars provide a satisfying crunch that pairs well with creamy desserts like cheesecakes.
Mini Cupcakes
Offer mini cupcakes as additional treats; they make great finger foods and add variety to your dessert table.
Coffee Cake
A slice of coffee cake complements the sweet cherries and creamy texture perfectly, especially during brunch gatherings.
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses can balance out sweetness, offering guests something savory alongside their dessert.
Crackers and Spreads
Light crackers with fruit spreads provide a delightful contrast to the richness of your No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the Cream Cheese Softening: Using cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy mixture. Always soften the cream cheese before mixing for a smooth texture.
Ignoring the Crust Measurement: Not measuring graham cracker crumbs accurately can result in a crust that’s either too dry or too soggy. Ensure you measure precisely for the best results.
Rushing the Refrigeration: Serving immediately after preparation can lead to a runny dessert. Allow adequate time in the fridge for it to set properly, ideally at least 2 hours.
Overmixing the Filling: Mixing the cheesecake filling too long can incorporate excess air, causing it to crack as it sets. Mix just until combined for a perfect texture.
Not Adjusting Sweetness: Each brand of cherry pie filling varies in sweetness. Taste and adjust your cheesecake mixture if needed to ensure a balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in airtight containers to keep them fresh.
Best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal taste and texture.
Keep refrigerated at all times until ready to serve.

Freezing No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert

You can freeze this dessert for up to 2 months.
Use freezer-safe containers or wrap individual servings tightly with plastic wrap.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert

Oven: Not recommended; this dessert is best served cold and does not require reheating.
Microwave: If necessary, microwave on low power in short bursts (10-15 seconds) just to take off chill, but be careful not to melt it.
Stovetop: Not applicable; this dessert should remain cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dessert a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for cherry pie filling?

You can use other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry for a different flavor profile while keeping the same base recipe intact.

How do I make a gluten-free version of this dessert?

To make a gluten-free No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert, simply replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives such as almond flour or gluten-free cookies.

Can I customize the toppings for my No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert?

Absolutely! You can top your cheesecake with fresh fruits, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream to add variety and flair.

Final Thoughts

This No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert is an easy yet elegant treat that fits any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations. Its creamy texture and sweet cherry topping make it irresistible. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or even try different fruit fillings. Give this delightful recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!

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